Spain, Franco. An Imperial Order of the Yoke & Arrows, Breast Star with Miniature, by Cejalvo c.1950

(Orden Imperial del Yugo y las Flechas). Instituted in 1937 by Francisco Franco. 1937-1975 issue. A black enameled four-armed cross in silver gilt, with obverse centre exhibiting a superposed red enameled royal symbol of the Yoke and Arrows, inscribed by the Latin inscription CAESARIS CAESARI DEI DEO (To Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God), reverse with ornament pin assembly and dual stays, measuring 71.25 mm (w) x 71.46 mm (h), presenting toned silver, good condition; together with a miniature also in silver gilt, a black enameled four-armed cross with obverse centre exhibiting a red enameled royal symbol of the Yoke and Arrows, plain reverse, measuring 16.31 mm (w) x 18.23 mm (h - inclusive of integral ball), very good; accompanied by a blue case, hardshelled ornament surface, superposing by a typical of time period gilded Spanish coat of arms, with functionally clasp, featuring white silk interior printed by maker's label "Condecoraciones Joyeria Cejalvo, Cruz 5, Madrid", with silk bed, light contact, measuring 102.96 mm (l) x 103 mm (w) x 34.71 mm (h), very fine.

Footnote: The Imperial Order of the Yoke and Arrows was originally instituted as the Great Order of the Red Arrows by General Francisco Franco on October 10, 1937. It was regulated and renamed Imperial Order of the Yoke and Arrows on January 27, 1943. The Order was awarded to Spaniards and foreigners either citizens or military personnel, in recognition of outstanding services rendered to Spain during Franco’s government; it was considered the most prestigious award within Spain for military and civil service. The Order was awarded for last time on October 1, 1975.